His one-liner predicts the entire primary season is a futile exercise. He brings smiles to young men in suits hustling into a security tent outside the front doors.

Johnson is but one member of the Ron Paul Nation to show up in an attempt to will their candidate to victory. Dozens of hardy Republicans brave the 30-degree weather and line an ice-slicked University Avenue. They hold signs supporting their candidate of choice. Only Ron Paul’s crew exudes true passion.

“So who’s going to win the GOP race in Iowa?” the ring-leader yells.

“Ron Paul!” the crowd responds.

The sound of drums leads to an Occupy Wall Street throng down the block marching in counter-protest. As they prepare to pass in front of the Republicans, a young woman barks out instructions.

“Single-file through the Ron Paul supporters. There’s room for everyone.”

As they scoot past, a dissonant chorus of free speech explodes. The occupy crowd shouts “We are the 99 percent,” into the faces of Republicans determined to match the volume with a chant of their own: “End the fed.”